ThatsRacin.com

Kurt Busch: 'Maybe I wasnt the best fit'

ThatsRacin.com Report

Monday, Dec. 05, 2011

Kurt Busch, who said Monday his immediate departure from Penske Racing resulted from a mutual decision, appeared on "Speed Center Monday" and was interviewed by co-hosts Steve Byrnes and Adam Alexander. Following is a transcript, courtesy of the Charlotte-based network:

Byrnes: In Vegas, we were talking about things you were building on from seasons past. It seems like this would be a complete surprise to you. Is that correct?

Busch: Well, no, the way we came to a mutual agreement, discussions were ongoing. Obviously out in Las Vegas to celebrate with Tony Stewart as our champion, there was discussions, and behind the scenes, things were developing.

Alexander: So, given the fact this was a mutual agreement between you and Team Penske, what reason was given to you for the split once the announcement was made?

Busch: Well, we both had our concerns and with the way that Ive worked with Roger in the past, it was clear and it was cut, and Im very thankful for the years that I spent over there.

We won a lot of races together and what I did this past season, it wasnt just one moment. There were a bunch of unprofessional moments, and what were the reasons behind those? And I began working with a sports psychologist and seeing some of those reasons and this now allows me for a fresh start. Its time to put a little bit of fun back in racing for me.

Byrnes: Kurt, in all reality, this couldnt have come at a good time for a driver looking for a ride. There arent that many rides. I know its early in the game, but do you have any opportunities as we head into 2012?

Busch: Im considering all options and Im encouraged by the quality phone calls today, texts and other ways. Its important for me to work on my issues and the way that I want to be a better person and a better driver.

As I reflect back on it, maybe I wasnt the best fit for the Penske Racing team and at times, my frankness and intensity maybe just didnt lay well. And Im just a regular guy and I wear my heart on my sleeve and I think everybody knows that and thats really some of the decision that went into everything back and forth.

Alexander: You mentioned that youve hired a sports psychologist. How is that going and what other things are in your future to try to get this anger management under control?

Busch: Well, its definitely working at it and taking the right steps to make sure that I find progress and achieve those small moments and recognize which ways I need to channel my emotion and my passion that have made me successful on track.

Its time to do that in other areas. Im excited about the future. This is a fresh start for me. Ive got a champions provisional that will guarantee me a spot in any race that I want to go to.

Theres all types of other racing options, so its been a unique day. Its going to be a unique week and month to figure out the next direction.

Byrnes: You mentioned that you may not have been a good fit at Penske. Why did you come to that conclusion and why did you think that?

Busch: I think the way that there was the formality of processes that maybe even Pat Tryson or Steve Addington didnt necessarily smooth into, as well. It was tough to enjoy those.

Its still a great program. I cant thank Roger enough. Those guys were so caring and they still are. That bridge is still there but its time for me to put fun back into my racing.

Alexander: Have you thought at all about a Sprint Cup race going on in 2012 without you participating?